Christina continues proud family tradition at Otago

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Otago University's graduating Pasifika students have thanked their families for inspiring their achievements

A celebration to honour Otago University's nine Pasifika graduates was held at Otago University's campus last Saturday.

And a celebration it was, with singing and dancing throughout.

Christina Mualia, a scholarship student from the government of Samoa said graduating was a special moment for her.

"It means a lot. I don't have any words, I'm speechless, to express the way I feel today,” she said.

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"When I came here to study for three years it was really hard, at first I was really homesick. But I got to meet all my fellow Pasifika students and found my second home."

Christina Mualia said she would not have been able to achieve it without the support of her family

"They are the reason why I got this far. I am a product of their prayers and commitment to seeing me achieve my goal "

She is now working at Samoa Pharmacy and Multipharm Laboratories helping her parents as she serves her government bond.

"I just want to make a difference in Samoa in terms of the healthcare delivery for our people."

At the Pacific Lotu Service held at the Otago University Union Hall, the Otago pro vice-chancellor , Professor Richard Barker addressed the graduates, saying they were entering into a new century where Pasifika people would win a place for themselves across society.

Christina is a third generation graduate of the Mualia Family.

She is the eldest daughter of Lemalu Mathew and Caroline Mualia who both graduated from the University of Queensland, St Lucia , Australia

Christina acknowledged with much thanks the Prime Minister of Samoa, and the governments of Samoa and New Zealand for granting scholarships for Samoan students graduating out of the National University of Samoa to pursue further academic studies in New Zealand